COMPARATIVEANALYSISOFAEROSOL ÅNGSTRÖMEXPONENTVARIATIONIN POKHARA:ACASESTUDYCOMPARINGKANPUR ANDBEIJINGFORTHEYEARS2019AND2020

Abstract

This thesis presents a collection of AOD data from AERONET followed by calculation and comparative analysis of the Ångström Exponent (𝛼) variation in Pokhara (28.21°N, 83.96°E), Nepal, with Kanpur(26.45°N and 80.33°E), India, and Beijing (39.90°N, 116.41°E), China, for the years 2019 and 2020. The study utilizes mathematical analysis to examine the fluctuations in 𝛼 values observed in these cities and investigates their implications for air pollution dynamics. The maximum and minimum 𝛼 values are calculated to be Pokhara (1.73 & 0.60); Kanpur (1.76 & 0.15) and Beijing (1.65 & 0.13) in the year 2019 and similarly, Pokhara (1.67 & 0.17); Kanpur(1.73 & 0.21) and Beijing(1.65 & 0.16) in the year 2020, providing insights into the seasonal and temporal variations of aerosols. The study explains the trimester-wise analysis of the variation of 𝛼 in Pokhara with the comparison of two calendar years 2019 and 2020. This further delves into the seasonal patterns of 𝛼, shedding light on the influence of specific factors during different periods. The research also explores that 𝛼 does not only depend upon the seasons and weather but also on meteorological parameters, pollutant emissions, atmospheric conditions, and other multidimensional particles dissolved in the atmosphere, however, the trend can be analyzed and compared. The analysis finally can be inferred that in Pokhara, the aerosol loading and water deposition in the atmosphere , is barely affected by anthropogenic sources. The findings underscore the significance of understanding and addressing air pollution challenges in these regions. This study contributes to the scientific understanding of 𝛼 variations and offers valuable insights for policymakers and researchers working towards sustainable air quality management.